Explore six non-food franchises and learn more about the benefits of franchising outside of the food and beverage industry.
Franchising often conjures images of busy fast-food restaurants and cozy coffee spots. After all, Americans spend $160 billion a year on fast food, according to World Population Review. Yet franchising is not confined to the food and beverage sector. It presents a wealth of opportunities for entrepreneurs aiming to launch a business with significant revenue potential in a variety of industries. There are more than 4,000 franchise brands in the United States, with approximately 806,270 locations. Fast food only accounts for 24% of the franchises. From staffing and recruitment to fitness centers, the franchise model is prevalent and successful.
Why Opt for a Non-Food Franchise?
Venturing into non-food franchises can broaden your investment horizons and tap into sectors with increasing demand and customer bases, positioning your business for long-term success and profitability. The best non-food franchises may offer more stability and predictability than food-based businesses, which can be vulnerable to fluctuating food costs and consumer dining trends. Many franchises outside of the foodservice sector often come with lower overhead costs, a smaller initial investment, and better hours.
Explore some of the top alternatives to a fast-food franchise:
- Staffing and recruitment agencies: The job market’s constant shifts mean businesses rely on staffing agencies to source qualified candidates. Franchises like AtWork provide a ready-to-go business model in an industry with a high demand for services, making it an excellent option for executives aiming to make a significant impact. Staffing companies hire 14.5 million temporary and contract workers each year, according to the American Staffing Association.
- Fitness and wellness centers: The ongoing trend towards health and wellness has individuals seeking personalized fitness experiences. At least 58% of people exercise at least three times a week. Fitness franchises can range from traditional gyms to specialized studios, such as yoga or Pilates, catering to a specific market.
- Home services: This broad category includes everything from cleaning and landscaping to repair and renovation services. With homeowners increasingly investing in their properties, franchises offering these services are in high demand.
- Automotive care: As people seek to extend their vehicles’ lifespans, the need for maintenance and repair services increases. The average age of cars on the road hit 12.5 years in 2023, according to S&P Global Mobility. Automotive care franchises provide essential services, including oil changes, brake repairs, and car washes, ensuring a steady flow of customers.
- Senior care services: As the elderly population grows, the demand for in-home senior care and assisted living services is on the rise. Franchises in this sector offer valuable community services while addressing a growing market need.
- Education and tutoring centers: The quest for academic excellence drives parents to seek additional support for their children, making education and tutoring franchises a profitable business. These franchises cater to a wide age range, offering everything from early childhood education to college prep.
Change Lives by Launching a Staffing Franchise
Staffing industry growth is robust, driven by changing workforce dynamics and the increasing demand for flexible staffing solutions. At least 40% of staffing firms report gains in new assignments in February. AtWork franchisees offer a wide range of staffing services to meet the diverse needs of employers and job seekers. AtWork provides temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct-hire staffing services across various industries, including light industrial, clerical, healthcare, and professional sectors. AtWork franchisees benefit from multiple revenue streams, enhancing business stability and growth potential.
As one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing staffing franchises, AtWork’s reputation helps new franchisees gain immediate credibility with clients and candidates, providing a competitive edge in the marketplace. AtWork is committed to the success of its franchisees, offering extensive support from the initial setup through the life of the business. AtWork provides training in operations, sales, and marketing, as well as ongoing advice and assistance from experienced professionals.
Get started to learn more about partnering with AtWork to help improve the lives of people in your community.
